Butterfly Encounter (Seasonal)

Wander through our outdoor butterfly tent and observe native Illinois butterfly behavior. Displays of butterfly eggs, caterpillars, and chrysalises also available. The butterfly tent is located in our Habitat Park exhibit.

Butterfly Encounter will be open from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM daily from June 19 – August 24, 2025. Morning hours maximize a butterfly’s natural activity cycle. The tent will be viewable from the outside during all Habitat Park operating hours.

Please note: Outer Habitat Park and the Butterfly Encounter may close:

• when heat index reaches 90 degrees
• during wet ground conditions
• during unhealthy air-quality advisories
• when electrical storms threaten